Northwest Hospital provides patients with new option for clearing blockages, and opening narrowed carotid artery
February 6, 2023 – HCA Florida Northwest Hospital, a 289-bed facility, and part of HCA Florida Healthcare, the largest healthcare system in the state, is pleased to announce it has completed its first elective trans-carotid artery revascularization (TCAR) procedure.
The newer, minimally invasive surgery was completed by HCA Florida Healthcare vascular surgeons, Dr. Kelechi Akuma and Dr. Rafael Bustamante and took less than 45 minutes.
“Patients are able to have this procedure either under local or general anesthesia,” said HCA Florida Healthcare vascular surgeon Dr. Kelechi Akuma. “The TCAR is unique in that the blood flow is temporarily reversed away from the brain. An incision is made and a stent is placed inside the carotid artery before normal blood flow is returned.”
The surgery is considered a less invasive approach treating carotid stenosis. “Less invasive procedures mean there is a very low risk of complications for patients,” said Akuma. “Patients typically return home the next day, experience a speeder recovery and get back to their normal routine more quickly.”
TCAR patients commonly benefit from a reduced risk of experiencing a stroke.
“HCA Florida Northwest Hospital provides a wide array of services to the community,” said HCA Florida Northwest Hospital CEO Kenneth Jones. “We are continuously expanding the latest technology, enabling us to always provide leading-edge services to the population we serve.”
About HCA Florida Northwest Hospital
HCA Florida Northwest Hospital, an award-winning 289-bed acute care hospital, has served communities across northern Broward County and South Florida for more than 30 years. HCA Florida Northwest Hospital provides award-winning care using the latest state-of-the-art advancements in medical technology with a focus on excellence in patient safety and care experience. A Joint Commission-accredited hospital and primary stroke center, HCA Florida Northwest Hospital is known for its heart and vascular care; women’s services – including maternity care – and the only Level III NICU in northern Broward County; 24/7 emergency medicine; minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery; orthopedic, spine and neurological care, and more.
HCA Florida Northwest Hospital is a part of HCA Florida Healthcare, the leading provider of healthcare in the state of Florida. With an employee base of 77,000, HCA Florida Healthcare’s comprehensive network includes 49 hospital campuses and more than 450 other care sites.